“Do-Overs” – new work from recycled images, ideas, concepts and painting surfaces

Alpine artist Deborah Allison has been intrigued by the movement to reuse or recycle objects in making art. This inspiration has led her to examine her studio and past artwork with a critical eye and determine how to incorporate this movement into her work. The new paintings will be on display at CatchLight Art Gallery starting August 13.

“Many artists destroy their mediocre art pieces, in part to make sure they don’t dilute their inventory as well as it being a cathartic practice of cleaning out. I’ve certainly torn up a few watercolors in my life! But in the process of relooking at used canvases I’ve decided that the textures and colors of an early study or demonstration piece can provide an interesting backdrop for a new painting.” Allison has also found it energizing to reexamine images she has painted in the past; “Using subjects and models I’m comfortable with gives me the freedom to experiment with color, design and texture”.

The exhibit of Allison’s new work includes landscapes and florals, but is predominantly figurative with portraits and gestural works done in a brushy, textural, painterly manner. Allison has clearly been having fun preparing for this show as it fresh and colorful and likely to inspire other artists to “re-use” their supplies in making new art.

The show “Do-Overs” – new work from recycled images, ideas, concepts & painting surfaces by Deborah Allison is held in conjunction with the BBAC (Big Bend Arts Council) show, R3 – Recycled/Repurposed/Reused, which runs August 13 to September 21. The public is invited to attend the receptions for both shows on Friday, September 4th from 5pm to 8pm.